[mythtv-users] Comcast Equipment Update

[Tom Bongiorno]

On Fri, Sep 9, 2016 at 1:45 PM, Michael T. Dean <mtdean at thirdcontact.com>
wrote:

> On 09/09/2016 11:51 AM, Tom Bongiorno wrote:
>
>> It will be interesting to see what finally comes out of the open set top
>> box initiative of the FCC. My guess is that set top boxes may be phased out
>> in favor of apps that run on your favorite streaming device.
>>
> ...
>
>> At least there will be no set top box rentals.
>>
>
> Exactly.  You'll be able to celebrate your/the FCC's victory over the evil
> cable monopolies when you get a bill that no longer charges you a STB
> rental fee.  Of course, that bill will probably be for the same amount as
> before due to "increased licensing costs" raising the rates for your
> subscription and/or (just a guess here--not based on any information or
> rumors) the "app access fee"*** they'll be charging...
>
> "How many devices will you use to access your TV service?"
> "4 iphones, 2 ipads, 3 Rokus, and a smart TV."
> "OK, the app access fee is $4/device/month, but we give you one device for
> free, so that's $36/mo.  And don't forget to deregister your old iphones
> when you upgrade or the new one will be another $4/mo."
>
> Wait a minute... Does it seem like the cable companies could contort this
> idea to make them even more money than STB rentals, or am I just being
> foolish?
>
> Mike
>
> *** Of course, their marketing geniuses will be able to come up with
> better words for it... Something that makes you (or at least most of their
> customers) feel good about it.
>
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That would be like cable fee whack-a-mole. Squash one fee and another pops
up to replace it. It certainly would not surprise me if they try something
like this. Like I said, only time will tell.
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